The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has concluded its investigation into Project Gaslight. The Alberta Crown Prosecution Service filed an indictment, advancing the charges related to this complex case.
The investigation focused on a group involved in extortion, arson, and a variety of other criminal activities. The centerpiece of the inquiry is the arrest of 35-year-old Maninder Singh Dhaliwal, who is believed to be the leader of the criminal organization behind the extortion activities. Dhaliwal was apprehended in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in late 2024 on separate criminal charges. The EPS has formally requested the extradition of Dhaliwal to Alberta to face charges in connection to Project Gaslight.
On July 25, 2024, six individuals were arrested in Edmonton concerning Project Gaslight. The suspects face a combined total of 54 charges, including extortion, arson, intentionally discharging a firearm, breaking, assault with a weapon, and additional offenses tied to the involvement with a criminal organization.
The arrested individuals are: Jashandeep Kaur, 20; Gurkaran Singh, 20; Manav Heer, 19; Parminder Singh, 21; Divnoor Asht, 19; and a male who was 17 at the time of the offences.
In a statement regarding the conclusion of the investigation, Inspector Duane Hunter, with the EPS Organized Crime Branch, praised the efforts of the team involved in Project Gaslight. “This investigation has been a massive effort on the part of EPS investigators, with never-before seen complexities involving international coordination, and we are very pleased to see it conclude with the request for the extradition of Dhaliwal,” said Hunter.
Hunter emphasized the importance of the case not only in its scope but in its broader message about international law enforcement cooperation. “This outcome shows criminals that international borders will not protect them, and we will not tolerate this kind of violence in our community, no matter where it originates from.”
The series of extortion-related incidents with a total of 40 came to a halt following the last reported arson on July 26, 2024. Since then, no new incidents have been reported. While the criminal group is now facing legal consequences, authorities continue to monitor the situation, assuring the public that every effort is being made to prevent future threats.